Five hospitalized after anthrax outbreak in Northern KazakhstanFive residents of Kazakhstan's Akmola region have been hospitalized with anthrax infections, regional health authorities confirmed Tuesday."The cutaneous anthrax cases were reported in the Atbasar district, where patients are in stable condition," according to the regional sanitary-epidemiological control department.Epidemiologists and veterinary officials have launched an investigation in the Shynkyrkyl rural district, identifying three contaminated samples among nine tested near livestock slaughter and grazing areas. Authorities have disinfected the slaughter site and incinerated contaminated materials.Approximately 350 cattle that may have been exposed to the bacteria are currently quarantined. Movement restrictions remain in effect as the probe continues.Anthrax, caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis, can persist in soil for decades. Humans typically contract the disease through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX